â€‹â€‹Energy Efficiency Checklist

Easy steps for do-it-yourself energy savings

Check out these ways to improve the efficiency of your building envelope and heating and cooling systems. Then watch your savings add up with the energy you conserve.

A few things you should know before you begin.

You may purchase suggested items or services from many different providers, such as local heating and cooling parts supply centers, repair service outlets, parts and equipment distributors, contractors, and manufacturer representatives.

Energy savings are not cumulative. Keep in mind that cost ranges for improvements can vary widely, depending on the nature and extent of improvements you make.

Average energy savings will vary depending upon the size, age and condition of your systems and how they are installed.

Heating / cooling system improvements

Enhance the performance of your heating and cooling systems with a tune-up. The right proportion of air and fuel is key, and a tune-up can help optimize air and fuel input for maximum energy efficiency. Too little air per unit of fuel causes unburned air to escape up the flue; too much air creates a higher draft that carries excess heat up and out.

Average energy savings: 2.5 percent of current energy use

Boiler reset controlsInstall boiler reset controls to adjust the water temperature in the building distribution system to correspond to outdoor air temperature fluctuations. You'll consume less energy in the heating system loop, reduce overheating in other building areas and increase seasonal efficiency.

Improve overall system efficiency and avoid unnecessary heat loss by insulating your hot water system piping. Apply insulating material on pipes from the boiler to the heating equipment. When considering insulation, remember that the R-value, or heat retention capability of the material, is more important than its thickness. The greater the R-value, the greater the insulating capability.

Average energy savings: 2.5 percent of current energy use

Programmable thermostatProgram your heating or cooling system for energy savings by installing a setback or programmable thermostat. By automatically lowering your heat setting or raising your cooling setting at night or during other unoccupied hours, you can save significant amounts of energy.

Average energy savings: 5 percent of current energy use

Water heater insulationInsulate your water heater to reduce heat loss. When considering insulation, remember that the R-value, or heat retention capability of the material, is more important than its actual thickness. The greater the R-value, the greater the insulating capability.

Average energy savings: 1 percent of current energy use

Ceiling fans

Reduce ceiling temperatures and decrease energy loss through the roof by installing ceiling fans. They'll mix rising warm air and circulate it downward to maintain comfortable, even temperatures more efficiently.

Average energy savings: 3.8 percent of current energy use

Occupancy sensorsAutomate lights and exhaust fans in restrooms and employee break areas with occupancy sensors. Because these areas are not continually occupied, you'll save by operating lights and exhaust fans intermittently as people enter and leave.

Average energy savings: 1 percent of current energy use

Air sealing materialsSeal air leaks around doors and windows, at roofline and roof penetrations to reduce air leaks and maintain even building temperatures. You'll add comfort and lower energy consumption by reducing hot or cold air drafts.